Posted By :  Admin1

In a pioneering medical achievement, surgeons in the United States have successfully removed a spinal tumor through a patient's eye socket—a procedure believed to be the first of its kind. Nineteen-year-old Karla Flores from Maryland had been experiencing blurred and double vision since 2023, which led to the discovery of a rare cancerous tumor called chordoma pressing against her left eye. Further examinations revealed another tumor near the top of her spine, posing a risk of paralysis if left untreated .

Traditional surgical methods, such as accessing the tumor through the neck, mouth, or nose, were deemed too risky due to potential complications. Dr. Mohamed AM Labib at the University of Maryland Medical Center proposed an innovative approach: removing the tumor through the lower eye socket. After extensive planning and practice on cadavers, Dr. Labib and his team, including facial reconstructive surgeon Dr. Kalpesh Vakharia, performed the 19-hour surgery on May 1, 2024. Using high-precision tools and an endoscope, they navigated through Karla's eye socket to successfully remove the spinal tumor without damaging vital nerves and blood vessels.

Post-surgery, Karla is recovering well, undergoing physical therapy, and receiving proton radiation to prevent the tumor's return. Her latest scans are clear, and doctors are optimistic about her prognosis. This groundbreaking procedure opens new possibilities for treating complex, hard-to-reach tumors with less risk and greater precision, potentially transforming surgical approaches for similar cases in the future .